Marriage – Going From Ordinary to Extraordinary

Section 1

Ambush is a surprise attack. It’s an unexpected plan to advance a cause.

Why are so many marriages ordinary?

We are flawed people that live in a fallen world

2 Corinthians 5:14-15 - “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for Him who died for them and was raised again.”

1 John 1:8 - “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”

Unrealistic expectations

Fear of dealing with reality and difficult issues

“Realism is found at the intersection of unabashed honesty and uncompromising hope. God’s Word and God’s grace make both possible in your marriage.” (Paul David Tripp)

How can we move from ordinary to extraordinary?

Attention - Intellectual intimacy

Philippians 2:2,4 - “Complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

Affirmation - Emotional intimacy

1 Thessalonians 5:11 - “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.” (NLT)

Romans 12:10 - “Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”

Affection - Physical intimacy

“Before you get married Satan tries to get you into the bed; after you’re married Satan tries to get you out of the bed.” (Beth Moore)

Genesis 26:8 - “And it came to pass, when he had been there a long time, that Abimelech king of the Philistines looked out at a window, and saw, and, behold, Isaac was sporting with Rebekah his wife.”

Adventure - Recreational intimacy

Ecclesiastes 9:9 - “Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love…”

Accordance - Spiritual intimacy

1 John 1:7 - “But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another…”